Bolton vs Barnsley tips and predictions: No way back for Tykes as Wanderers strike late
- George Dempsey
- 7 May 2024
Bolton Wanderers have a 3-1 lead to protect against Barnsley in the second leg of the League One play-off semi-finals on Tuesday night (2000 BST)
Bolton will host Barnsley looking to protect a 3-1 lead from the first leg at Oakwell. It’s a long way back for the visitors from Yorkshire and we aren’t expecting a turnaround.
Last week’s preview backed Wanderers to win and focused on how well-rounded a side they are while the Tykes have been suffering on and off the pitch.
There were levels between the teams as demonstrated by Dion Charles, who clinically finished a crisp passing move that tore Barnsley apart in the 23rd minute.
Ian Evatt’s side looked sharper in attack for much of the night. Randell Williams and Edmond-Paris Maghomes missed huge chances, but the former scored directly from the resulting corner after the goalkeeper denied the latter.
The win extended the Wanderers' unbeaten run to eight matches in League One and gives them something to protect at home, where they’re unbeaten in 10.
They’re odds on favourites to win again on Tuesday night and despite the gulf between the sides, that could be a risky position to take.
Evatt’s side will prioritise keeping their lead intact while picking their moments to attack. That doesn’t mean they’ll sit back because they don’t want to invite that pressure.
On the other hand, Barnsley had 60% of the ball in the first leg and could have conceded five goals, so inviting them on and setting traps will work again.
The difficulty for Barnsley is trying to chase down two goals without leaving themselves open at the back. That will become more apparent as the game goes on.
We don’t have much faith in them turning it around so based on the situation, we’ll bet the second half to be the highest scoring. We’ll also back Bolton to strike late.
